Electronic Casino Games Having Primary Games and Side Games

ABSTRACT

A gaming system may be operable to store a first set of operational rules for determining a first condition for a primary game, and a second set of operational rules for determining a second condition for a side game that is different from the primary game. Additionally, the system can be operable to randomly or pseudo-randomly generate a combination of graphical symbols in accordance with a play of a casino game and determine one or more first winning conditions or losing conditions for the first game by applying the first set of operational rules to the generated combination of graphical symbols. Further, when the side game is enabled, the system may be operable to determine one or more second winning conditions or losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to at least a portion of the generated combination of graphical symbols.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/409,597 entitled “Systems and Methods for an Electronic Casino Game Having Primary and Side Game,” filed on Nov. 3, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates generally to casino games, and more particular, to electronic casino games having primary games and side games.

BACKGROUND

In both traditional gaming scenarios, such as with a board game or a slot machine, and online gaming scenarios, operational rules and conditions often define the playing field. Additionally, in some instances, symbols are used for different purposes. For example, in tic-tac-toe, the symbols include “x” and “o,” the operational rules involve having two players taking turns placing the respective symbols on a 3×3 grid, and the conditions provide for winning by placing three respective marks in a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal row on the grid. However, such games have limited functionality and, in the casino industry, may lead to wasted gambling opportunities. As such, finding ways to enhance gaming scenarios continues to be a priority.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example architecture for supporting an Internet-based or web-based casino game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example game console for supporting a physical-machine based casino game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3A illustrates an example graphical user interface (“GUI”) of an example casino game in which the primary game, but not the side game, is active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3B illustrates a variation of the GUI of FIG. 3A in which both the primary game and the side game are active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4A illustrates another example GUI of an example casino game in which the primary game, but not the side game, is active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B illustrates a variation of the GUI of FIG. 4A in which both the primary game and the side game are active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a high-level overview of a flow diagram for operating an example casino game comprising a primary game and a side game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are shown. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Embodiments of the disclosure generally relate to a casino game, which may be embodied as an Internet-based or web-based casino game or a physical machine-based casino game played via game console. As used herein, a game console may include, but is not limited to, any slot machine, video poker machine, or other gaming machine that may operate using money, stored credit, or other source of funds. In certain embodiments, a game console may be located, or otherwise operational, at a casino or other gaming location or via a Web interface. An example casino game may be made up of a primary game and a side game (also referred to as a “secondary game” or a “side bet game”) that can be selectively enabled or disabled by a player according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Accordingly, a player of the casino game may wager a first amount on the primary game and optionally a second amount on a side game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

The primary game and the side game may have respective sets of rules, where the rules are operable independent of each other, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Likewise, there may be respective wagers or bet amounts for the respective primary game and the side game. Each of the respective rules for the primary game and the side game may determine (i) when one or more winning conditions or losing conditions exist for the respective game, and (ii) the respective amounts attributable to the one or more winning conditions or losing conditions (e.g., a respective payout table).

In an example embodiment of the disclosure, the primary game may be a slot game while the side game may be a different game than the slot game. For example, the side game can include one of a variety of games, including Poker, Caribbean Stud Poker, Roulette, Blackjack, Pai Gow, Bingo, Keno, Craps, or any other type of game. According to an example embodiment, the markers utilized on each reel of the slot game may include graphical symbols or representations that may support the side game. For example, the markers on the slot game can be stylized as Poker cards where the side game is any type or form of Poker, such as, but not limited to, Hold'em, Pai Gow, Spanish 21, three-card Poker, or the like. On the other hand, the markers on the slot game can be stylized as Roulette-based number/color symbols where the side game is Roulette.

Accordingly, example casino games may offer a player a chance to place a bet or wager, separate from that of the primary game, in order to participate in a side game that is independent of the main slot game. The draw (e.g., the one or more displayed symbols on one or more reels of the primary game) may be used to determine the outcome of the primary game, and likewise the outcome of the side game; however respective (and different) rules may be applied for the primary game and the side game. It will be appreciated that the operation of the primary game may not be affected by the operation of the side game; rather, the same random number generator (“RNG”) outcome that is utilized on the primary game to provide any given reels spin may be likewise utilized for the side game to offer an alternative betting opportunity for the player. In other words, two respective rules for the primary game and the side game may be applied to the same set of elements/symbols/markers resulting from a particular draw of the casino game. In addition, in some instances, the outcome of the side game may be impacted by the skill of the player. For example, and without limitation, when the side game is Caribbean Stud Poker, or any other game that at least partly relies on skill, the outcome of the Caribbean Stud Poker hand (or other game) may be determined based in part on the primary draw (i.e., the outcome of the primary game) and also in part on the choices made by the player in the Poker game.

It will be appreciated that the casino game having a primary game and a side game can be embodied in many forms having numerous variations, and should not be limited to only those embodiments described herein.

Illustrative Architecture

FIG. 1 illustrates an example architecture 100 for supporting an Internet-based or web-based casino game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the architecture 100 may include one or more users 102 that may utilize or otherwise access one or more customer/player computers 103 a-n, game consoles 104 and/or service provider computers 105, which may each be configured for accessing and reading associated computer-readable media having stored thereon data and/or computer-executable instructions for implementing the various methods of the disclosure. Generally, network devices and systems, including the one or more customer/employer computers 103, game consoles 104, and/or service provider computers 105 have hardware and/or software for transmitting and/or receiving data and/or computer-executable instructions over a communications link and a memory for storing data and/or computer-executable instructions. These network devices and systems may also include a processor for processing data and executing computer-executable instructions, as well as other internal and peripheral components that are well known in the art. As used herein, the term “computer-readable medium” may describe any form of storage medium, storage memory, or storage devices.

As shown in FIG. 1, the customer/player computer 103, the game console 104, and the service provider computer 105 may be in communication with each other via a network such as network 110, which as described below can include the Internet or one or more separate or shared private and/or public networks. Each of these components—the customer/player computer 103, the game console 104, and the service provider computer 105—will now be discussed in further detail.

First, the customer/player computer 103 may be any processor-driven device, such as a personal computer, laptop computer, handheld computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, or the like. In addition to having one or more processors 108, the customer/player computer 103 may further include a memory 110, input/output (“I/O”) interface(s) 112, and one or more network interface(s) 114. The memory 110 may store data files 116 and various program modules, such as an operating system (“OS”) 118 and a client module 120. The memory 110 may be any computer-readable medium, coupled to the processor 108, such as RAM, ROM, and/or a removable storage device for storing the data files 116 and a database management system (“DBMS”) to facilitate management of the data files 116 and other data stored in the memory 110 and/or stored in separate databases. The OS 118 may be, but is not limited to, Microsoft Windows®, Apple OSX™, Unix, or a mainframe operating system. The client module 120 may be an Internet browser or other software, including a dedicated program, for interacting with the service provider computer 105 to provide a game 122 via an interface, such as but not limited to a Web browser 124. For example, a customer or player (i.e., a user 102) may utilize the client module 120 to interact with the service provider computer 105 via a website to access, utilize, or play one or more example casino games, such as the game 122, as described herein. The client module 120 may also be utilized to retrieve or otherwise receive data, messages, and/or responses from the service provider computer 105.

Still referring to the customer/player computer 103, the I/O interface(s) 112 may facilitate communication between the processors 108 and various I/O devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, microphone, speaker, monitor, bar code readers/scanners, RFID readers, and the like. The network interface 114 may take any of a number of forms, such as a network interface card, a modem, a wireless network card, and the like. It will be appreciated that while customer/player computer 103 has been illustrated as a single computer or processor, the customer/player computer 103 may be comprised of a group of computers or processors, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

In some examples, the game console 104 may be any processor-driven device, such as a personal computer, laptop computer, handheld computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, a thin-client device, or the like, that can similarly provide the game 122 to a user 102. In addition to having one or more processors, the game console 104 may further include a memory, I/O interface(s), and one or more network interface(s), much like the customer/player devices 103. The memory may store data files and various program modules, such as an OS and a client module. Much like the customer/player devices 103 described above, the memory may be any computer-readable medium, coupled to one or more processors, such as RAM, ROM, and/or a removable storage device for storing data files and a DBMS to facilitate management of the data files and other data stored in the memory and/or stored in separate databases. The OS may be, but is not limited to, Microsoft Windows®, Apple OSX™, Unix, or a mainframe operating system. The client module may be an Internet browser or other software, including a dedicated program, for interacting with the service provider computer 105 to provide a game 122 via one or more display devices. For example, a customer or player (i.e., a user 102) may utilize the client module of the game console 104 to interact with the service provider computer 105 via a website to access, utilize, or play one or more example casino games, as described herein. The client module may also be utilized to retrieve or otherwise receive data, messages, and/or responses from the service provider computer 105. However, in some embodiments, the service provider computer 105 may be integrated with, and/or housed within, the game console 104 itself.

In some examples, the game 122 may be a casino game, such as but not limited to a slot game, to be played on a customer/player device 103 or a game console 104, such as by a user 102. Alternatively, or in addition, the game 122 may be a card-based game, a table-type game, or any other game on which a wager may be placed. Additionally, in some aspects, the game 122 may be broken up into to two games played simultaneously, as described above. For example, the game 122 may be played as a main game with a side-bet game, as seen with reference to “A” and “B” of the web browser 124 of the customer/player device 103 and/or “X” and “Y” of the separate displays on the game console 104.

The service provider computer 105 may be any processor-driven device that is configured for receiving, processing, and fulfilling requests from the customer/player computer 103. The service provider computer 105 may include one or more processors 126, a memory 128, I/O interface(s) 130, and network interface(s) 132. The memory 128 may be any computer-readable medium, coupled to the processor 126, such as RAM, ROM, and/or a removable storage device for storing data files 134 and a DBMS 136 to facilitate management of data files 134 and other data stored in the memory 128 and/or stored in one or more databases 138. The memory 128 may store data files 134 and various program modules, such as an OS 140, the DBMS 136, and the host module 142. The OS 136 may be, but is not limited to, Microsoft Windows®, Apple OSX™, Unix, or a mainframe operating system. The host module 140 may receive, process, and/or respond to requests from a client module 120 of a customer/player computer 103. The service provider computer 105 may include additional program modules or applications for performing other pre-processing or post-processing methods described herein, including supporting or providing one or more of the blocks illustrated in FIG. 4.

In addition, a web interface 144 may also be operative with or otherwise included with the service provider computer 105. In particular, the web interface 144 may allow for a customer/player computer 103, the game console 104, or another computer to access the service provider computer 105 via a website. For example, a customer/player computer 103 or a game console 104 may access the web interface 144 via the Internet over network 110. In some examples, a web interface 146 may be provided by a separate processor-based system that is distinct from the service provider computer 105. That is, the web interface 146 may, in some instances, be provided by a separate web server that is in communication with network 110 and the service provider computer 105. Alternatively, it will be appreciated that the web interface 144 may also be incorporated into the service provider computer 105 as well, perhaps as part of host module 140, according to another example embodiment of the disclosure.

The service provider computer 105 and/or web interface 144 or 146 may also include or be in communication with one or more database(s) 138, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. The database 138 may store, for example, access information (e.g., username, password, etc.), gaming software and logic/rules, financial account information, and the like. Although a single database 138 is referred to herein for simplicity, those skilled in the art will appreciate that multiple physical and/or logical databases may be used to store the above mentioned data. For security and performance purposes, the service provider computer 105 may have a dedicated connection to the database 138. However, the service provider computer 105 may also communicate with the database 138 via a network 110. In other embodiments of the disclosure, the service provider computer 105 may include the database 138 locally. The service provider computer 105 may also otherwise be part of a distributed or redundant DBMS.

The network 110 may include any telecommunication and/or data network, whether public, private, or a combination thereof, including a local area network, a wide area network, an intranet, an internet, the Internet, intermediate data transfer devices, a publicly switched telephone network (“PSTN”), and/or any combination thereof and may be wired and/or wireless.

Generally, each of the memories and data storage devices, such as the memories 110, 128 and the database 138, and/or any other memory and data storage device, can store data and/or information for subsequent retrieval. In this manner, the architecture 100 can store various received or collected information in memory or a database associated with one or more customer/player computers 103, game consoles 104, or service provider computers 105. The memories and databases can be in communication with each other and/or other databases, such as a centralized database, or other types of data storage devices. When needed, data or information stored in a memory or database may be transmitted to a centralized database capable of receiving data, information, or data records from more than one database or other data storage devices. In other embodiments, the databases shown can be integrated or distributed into any number of databases or other data storage devices. In one example embodiment, for security, the service provider computer 105 (or any other entity) may have a dedicated connection to the database 138, as shown; though, in other embodiments, the service provider computer 105 or another entity may communicate with the database 138 via a network such as network 110.

Suitable processors, such as the processors 108, 126 of the customer/player computers 103, game consoles 104, and service provider computers 105 may comprise a processor, an ASIC, and/or a state machine. Example processors can be those provided by Intel Corp. (Santa Clara, Calif.), AMD Corp. (Sunnyvale, Calif.), and/or Motorola Corp. (Schaumburg, Ill.). Such processors include, or may be in communication with media, for example computer-readable media, which stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the elements described herein. Embodiments of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage device capable of providing a processor with computer-readable instructions. Other examples of suitable media include, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD, magnetic disk, memory chip, ROM, RAM, a configured processor, all optical media, all magnetic tape or other magnetic media, or any other storage medium from which a computer processor can read instructions. The instructions may comprise code from any computer-programming language, including, for example, C, C++, C#, Visual Basic, Java, Python, Perl, and JavaScript. Furthermore, any of the processors may operate any operating system capable of supporting locally executed applications, client-server based applications, and/or browser or browser-enabled applications.

In some examples, the processors 126 may be configured to randomly or pseudo-randomly generate a combination of numbers (in some examples, via a RNG) in accordance with a play of a casino game. These numbers may then be mapped to appropriate graphical symbols for play in the casino game. For example, and without limitation, if the casino game is Poker, the numbers may be mapped or associated with one or more graphical symbols that represent Poker cards. In other examples, the numbers may be mapped or otherwise associated with one more graphical symbols that represent Roulette numbers, Bingo numbers, Keno numbers, or the like. Additionally, the processors 126 may also be configured to determine one or more first winning conditions or first losing conditions for the primary game by applying the first set of operational rules to the associated graphical symbols. When the side game is enabled, the processors 126 may also be configured to determine one or more second winning conditions or second losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to at least a portion of the associated graphical symbols.

The architecture 100 shown in and described with respect to FIG. 1 is provided by way of example only. Numerous other operating environments, system architectures, and device configurations are possible. Other system embodiments can include fewer or greater numbers of components and may incorporate some or all of the functionality described with respect to the components shown in FIG. 1. Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure should not be construed as being limited to any particular operating environment, system architecture, or device configuration.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example game console 104 for supporting a physical-machine based casino game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, an example casino gaming machine, or game console 104, may support the example casino games described herein. The example game console 104 may be located in a physical casino in accordance with example embodiment of the disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 2, the example game console 104 may have a housing 202 that incorporates at least a main display 204, an optional secondary display 206, money collector 208, selection buttons 210, and money dispenser 212. The main display 204 may be a touch-screen display capable of receiving touch selections from a player. The main display 204 may be configured to display one or more example casino games having a primary game and a side game, as described herein. The optional display 206 may be utilized to display gaming preferences or selections, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. The monetary collector 208 may comprise a card reader (e.g., for reading magnetic stripes on debit cards, credit cards, player identification cards, etc.). The monetary collector 208 may also comprise a bill collector or a coin collector. It will be appreciated that many variations of monetary collectors 208 are available in accordance with example embodiments of the disclosure.

The housing 202 may also support one or more selection buttons 210. The selection buttons are typically utilized to provide inputs to operate one or more casino games. For example, there may be buttons for selecting or adjusting the number of lines for a primary (e.g., slot) game, an amount of a bet or wager, etc. Likewise, there may be buttons to end a game, to enable or disable a side game, and the like. In addition, the housing 210 may also include a money dispenser 212 that can dispense remaining credits in the form of coins, tokens, or other units of value to the player. However, in some embodiments, the remaining credits may be provided electronically to an account of the player as well apart from the money dispenser 212. While not illustrated in FIG. 2, the internal housing 202 may also include one or more computers or microcontrollers that similarly have a memory, a processor, I/O interfaces, and/or network interfaces, as similarly described with respect to either service provider computer 105 or customer/player computer 103. It will be appreciated that many variations of the example game console 104 are available without departing from example embodiments of the disclosure.

Illustrative Games

FIG. 3A illustrates an example GUI 300 of an example casino game in which the primary game, but not the side game, is active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, the primary game may be representative of an example slot game. The example slot game may have a plurality of respective reels 302 a-e, a side bet game selector 304, and a side bet portion 306. As shown in FIG. 3A, the side bet game selector 304 indicates that the side bet game is “off.” Additionally, in FIG. 3A, five reels 302 a-e are illustrated, but it will be appreciated that fewer or more reels may be utilized. Each of the respective reels may include a plurality of markers or symbols. In FIG. 3A, the visible portion of each reel 302 a-e shows about 3 full markers or symbols, although this number may also be varied as desired. Each of the respective reels 302 a-e are typically represented as “spinning” in which the symbols shown in the visible portion of each reel 302 a-e change until the spinning stops, and the determination of any winning or losing conditions occurs. Further, when the side bet game selector 304 is activated (i.e., the selector 304 indicates that the side bet game is “on”), a symbol selector 308 may indicate a particular position of one of the reels 302 a-e for inclusion in the side bet game.

In accordance with the rules of the slot game, a player may have one or more winning lines based upon the repetition of markers/symbols on one or more lines. In general, a line typically includes one marker/symbol from each of the plurality of reels 302 a-e. Lines can be horizontal lines, diagonal lines, or combinations of horizontal and diagonal lines, as appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. The amount payable for a winning line can be based upon a pay table in which certain symbols/markers, in certain combinations and sequences, have specified values. It will be appreciated that one or more buttons may be selected on the GUI in order to select the number of lines to be played, as well as the wager or bet amount for each line, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

It will be appreciated that many types of markers/symbols can be utilized for the slot game (i.e., the primary game). Indeed, because a slot game operates with generally simplistic rules relating to certain combinations of symbols/markers on a line, these symbols/markers can be easily modified without requiring modifications to the rules of the slot game. Accordingly, the symbols/markers can be adapted based upon the type of side game being utilized in conjunction with the slot game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. As introduced previously, the symbols/markers on the slot game can be stylized as Poker cards where the side game is Poker. On the other hand, the symbols/markers on the slot game can be stylized as Roulette-based number/color symbols where the side game is Roulette. Accordingly, at least a portion of the symbols/markers utilized for the reels 302 a-e may resemble combinations of Roulette numbers and colors (e.g., red or black is illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B as white and black). Other variations of the symbols/markers utilized on each reel 302 a-e can be utilized to support the type of side game being utilized.

FIG. 3B illustrates a variation of the GUI 300 of FIG. 3A in which both the primary game and the side game are active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that the primary game and the side game may be active and played on the same screen or on separate screens (e.g., as seen with the game console 104). Additionally, in this example, the side bet game selector 304 indicates that the side bet game is “on.” As shown in FIG. 3B, the side game may be Roulette. Accordingly, the side game window 306 may include a version of a Roulette table. More specifically, the side game window 306 may illustrate a simplified version of a Roulette-betting table, with areas for betting on the numbers 1 to 12, on the wild symbol (which may act like a zero on a standard roulette), on columns, on low or high, on even or odd, and on red or black (shown in FIG. 3B as dotted or black), according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. Likewise, a particular location on a reel 308—in this example, the center of reel 302 e having a box around it—may be representative of a ball spinning on a Roulette wheel. It will be appreciated that slight variations of the Roulette rules may be utilized if necessary to accommodate situations where certain non-standard Roulette markers/symbols (e.g., Wild, Bonus, etc.) may be utilized. Further, as desired in some aspects, players may be requested to wager the maximum number of lines in the primary game prior to allowing enablement of the side game.

In accordance with example Roulette rules, a player may have up to a certain number of credits to bet or wager as he or she sees fit, without having to bet them all. This Roulette side bet, played in the side bet game window 306, may be additional to that of the primary game, and the user may have the ability to maintain or change the amount of the side bet, or otherwise turn off the side bet (and thus the side Roulette game altogether) via the selector 304, shown in the “on” position in FIG. 3B. While the side bet is turned “on,” the central marker/symbol 308 of the reel 302 e (by way of example only, the first one on the right—however, in other examples, any location on the primary game may be selected as the central marker/symbol 308 by an operator or player of the game) may act as the winning symbol on the roulette. As with standard roulette, the player's matches may determine the amount of the winnings. These winnings may be additional to those of the main game. The side bet pay table may be, but is not limited to, the following:

-   -   Straight: 12 times the placed bet.     -   Split: 6 times the placed bet.     -   Corner: 3 times the placed bet.     -   Column: 3 times the placed bet.     -   High or Low: 2 times the placed bet.     -   Even or Odd: 2 times the placed bet.     -   Red or Black: 2 times the placed bet.

In one non-limiting example, a player may place a bet on the primary slot game, turn “on” the side bet via the side bet game selector 304, and, as shown in FIG. 3B, place Roulette bets on “white 3,” “black 6,” and the line between “white 7” and “black 10.” Additionally, in this example, the symbol selector 308 indicates that the slot game has randomly stopped “spinning” with a “black 10” in that position. The casino game may first determine appropriate winnings or losses based on the slot game (i.e., the primary game). Additionally, the casino game may also then determine whether the player has won or lost any credit on the side bet. In this example, because the player placed a bet that included the “black 10,” the player has won at least a portion of the wager because at least one of the Roulette bets was placed at least partially on the “black 10,” as seen at 306. It will be understood, however, that other variations of bets, outcomes, rules, winning, and/or losses may be envisioned.

FIG. 4A illustrates an example GUI 400 of another example casino game in which the primary game 402, but not the side game 404, is active as indicated by the side bet indicator 406 being in the “off” position, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4A, the primary game may be representative of an example slot game. The example slot game may have a plurality of respective rows 408 a-c, the side bet game selector 406, and the side bet portion 404. As shown in FIG. 4A, the side bet game selector 406 indicates that the side bet game is “off” Additionally, in FIG. 4A, three rows 408 a-c are illustrated, but it will be appreciated that fewer or more rows may be utilized. Each of the respective rows may include a plurality of markers or symbols. Here, the symbols may be indicative of a card game, with traditional Poker cards including a range of numbers, generally Two through Ten, plus a Jack, a Queen, a King, and an Ace for each suit. Additionally, as an example, suits may generally include Spades, Clubs, Diamonds, and Hearts. In FIG. 4A, the visible portion of each row 408 a-c shows about 3 full markers or symbols, although this number may also be varied as desired. Much like with FIGS. 4A and 4B, each of the respective reels may be represented as “spinning” in which the symbols shown in the visible portion of each reel change until the spinning stops, and the determination of any winning or losing conditions occurs. Further, when the side bet game selector 406 is activated (i.e., the selector 406 indicates that the side bet game is “on”), a row selector 410 a-c may indicate a particular row 408 a-c for inclusion in the side bet game.

As noted above, in accordance with the rules of the slot game, a player may have one or more winning lines based upon the repetition of markers/symbols on one or more lines. In general, a line typically includes one marker/symbol from each of the plurality of rows 408 a-c. Lines can be horizontal lines, diagonal lines, or combinations of horizontal and diagonal lines, as appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. The amount payable for a winning line can be based upon a pay table in which certain symbols/markers, in certain combinations and sequences, have specified values. It will be appreciated that one or more buttons may be selected on the GUI in order to select the number of lines to be played, as well as the wager or bet amount for each line, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B illustrates a variation of the GUI 400 of FIG. 4A in which both the primary game and the side game are active, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that the primary game and the side game may be active and played on the same screen or on separate screens. Additionally, in this example, the side bet game selector 406 indicates that the side bet game is “on.” As shown in FIG. 4B, the side game may be Poker. Accordingly, the side game window 404 may include one or more additional Poker hands. More specifically, the side game window 404 may illustrate three different Poker hands including a first Poker hand showing an “high card” hand (“Ace high” in this example), a second Poker hand showing a pair of Aces, and a third Poker hand showing another “high card” hand (“Jack high” in this example). Likewise, a particular row 408 a-c—in this case, the middle row 408 b having a radio button next to it—may be representative of a Poker hand being played by the user or the house. As used herein, the term “house” may generally be used to describe the casino at which a player is gambling or a website that hosts the game. It will be appreciated that slight variations of the Poker rules may be utilized if necessary to accommodate situations where certain non-standard Poker markers/symbols (e.g., Wild, Bonus, etc.) may be utilized.

In accordance with example Poker rules, a player may have up to a certain number of credits to bet or wager as he or she sees fit, without having to bet them all. This Poker side bet, played in the side bet game window 404, may be additional to that of the primary game, and the user may have the ability to maintain or change the amount of the side bet, or otherwise turn off the side bet (and thus the side Poker game altogether) via the selector 406, shown in the “on” position in FIG. 4B. While the side bet is turned “on,” the selected row may act as the player's Poker hand to play against one or more additional “house” hands, or the selected row may act as the “house” hand to play against one more additional player hands. As with standard poker, the outcome of comparing the “house” hand(s) against the player's hand(s) may determine the amount of the winnings. These winnings may be additional to those of the main game.

In one non-limiting example, a player may place a bet on the primary slot game, turn “on” the side bet via the side bet game selector 406, and, as shown in FIG. 4B, select the middle row 408 b by selecting the button 410 b. Additionally, in this example, the player may choose to have the middle row 408 b act as the “house” hand for the player to try to beat with the three additional hands of the side bet window 404 by selecting the buttons 412 a-c. In some examples, the player may select any combination of buttons 412 a-c, such that the player may attempt to beat the “house” hand with up to three hands. As desired, each button 412 a-c selected may cost additional bets and/or credits from the player. The casino game may first determine appropriate winnings or losses based on the slot game (i.e., the primary game). Additionally, the casino game may also then determine whether the player has won or lost any credit on the side bet. In this example, the middle row 408 b contains a “King high” hand, and because the player selected the middle row as the “house” hand, and all three side bet hands, the player will receive three attempts to beat the “King high” hand of the “house.” As shown in FIG. 4B, the first two player hands, “Ace high” and “Pair of Aces” beats the “house” hand; however, the third player hand, that is the “Jack high” hand loses. Alternatively, the player may have selected the middle row 408 b to be played as the player hand, as opposed to the “house” hand. In this example, the player may again select up to three side bet hands 412 a-c, this time to be played as the “house” hands. However, it will be understood that other variation of scenarios, selections, bets, outcomes, rules, winning, and/or losses may be envisioned.

In some examples, the player may, alternatively, select one or more primary game rows 408 a-c in an attempt to beat some predetermined poker hand, such as but not limited to, Jacks-or-better, High-card, or the like. Further, in another aspect, with the side game, a player may select to play one of the 3 rows illustrated 408 a-c, and may compete against the other 2 rows (e.g., if row 408 a is selected, the player may then compete against rows 408 b and 408 c). In particular, and as noted above, each row may include five cards of a typical hand of Poker. Traditional Poker rules, or slight variations thereof, can then be utilized with the side game to determine which of the 3 rows has the winning hand, as illustrated by FIG. 4B. For example, in the case of a Wild and/or Bonus symbol appears on any given row, they may not be taken into account for the side bet. Additionally, in some examples, if exact same cards appear on the same row, only the first one may count. With the valid cards a Poker hand will be formed for each row. The user may be able to wager a fixed amount or a variable amount on one of the 3 rows for the side game, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that the portion of one or more reels and/or rows being utilized for the side game may differ depending upon the type of side game being provided. Further, while not shown, many other games, including Blackjack may be implemented in the same fashion as above. For example, the one or more locations within rows 408 a-c may be selected by a user as either (or both) the “house” cards or the player's cards. Additionally, locations may be selected to play against other pre-selected locations and/or locations may be selected as additional cards for when the player and/or the “house” “hits” for additional cards as is common in Blackjack.

Illustrative Processes

FIG. 5 illustrates a high-level overview of a method 500 for operating an example casino game comprising a primary game 500 a and a side game 500 b, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure. At block 502, the casino game may be in an idle state until initiated by a player. Initiation may include receiving sufficient credits (e.g., monetary or wager credits) into a player's game balance in order to allow the player to play at least one game.

At block 504, the method 500 may receive a selection of a number of lines and/or a bet per line. This information may be received in response to the player initiating the primary game via selection of one or more I/O interfaces 112 of a customer/player device 103 or a game console 104. Where the primary game is a slot game, the player may initiate the slot game by selecting the number of lines to play as well as the amount of the wager or bet per line. Following block 504, the player may optionally turn on the side game by selecting one of the selection buttons 210 of the game console 104 and/or the selectors 304 or 406 of FIGS. 3A-B or 4A-B, respectively. If so, the method 500 may receive the selection to enable the side game at block 506. Additionally, if the player has turned on the side game at block 506, the method may then receive a side game bet at block 508.

The method 500 may either proceed from block 504 to block 510, when only the primary game is being played, or from block 508 to block 510, when the side game is also being played. Either way, at block 510, the method 500 may determine a total bet. That is, the total amount being wagered may be determined as the sum of a first amount being wagered on the primary game along with any second amount being wagered on the side game. Where the first game is a slot game, the first amount being wagered may be a product of the number of lines to play and/or the amount of the wager per line. The method 500 may then, at block 512, activate primary game by spinning the reels of the slot game. At block 514, the method 500 may deduct the total bet from the game balance.

At block 516, the method 500 may generate a single set of symbols to determine winnings in slot and side games. That is, the spinning of the reels of the primary game can result in a unique set of symbols for use of determining the winning (or losing) status of the primary game. Likewise, where the side game is concurrently being played, at least a portion of the same unique set of symbols may be used to determine the wining (or losing) status of the side game. At block 518, the method 500 may then determine a first payout or winnings in accordance with particular first rules or pay table associated with a primary game such as the slot game. Similarly, at block 520, the method 500 may determine the second payout or winnings in accordance with particular second rules or pay table associated with a side game. It will be appreciated that the first and second rules for the respective primary game and side game may be independent of each other and/or may be dependent on one another (e.g., when the side bet game outcome is dependent on the outcome of the primary game symbols, rows, and/or reels selected, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

Following blocks 518 or 520, at block 522, the method 500 may determine a total win amount (or payout). In some examples, this total payout may be determined as the sum of the first and second payouts or winnings determined at blocks 518 and 520. It will be appreciated that the total win amount could be zero or a number greater than zero. At block 524, the method 500 may end by adding the total payout of block 522 to the game balance of the player. Alternatively, the method may update the game balance with the total win of block 522 and then proceed to the game idle state of block 502.

It will be appreciated that many variations of FIG. 5 are available without departing from example embodiments of the disclosure.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will be apparent having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. 

1. A system, comprising: at least one memory for storing at least (i) a first set of operational rules for determining one or more first winning conditions or first losing conditions for a primary game, and (ii) a second set of operational rules for determining one or more second winning conditions or second losing conditions for a side game, wherein the primary game and the side game are different, and wherein the first set of operational rules are independent from the second set of operational rules; at least one processor in communication with the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is operable to execute computer-executable instructions to: randomly or pseudo-randomly generate a combination of numbers in accordance with a play of a casino game; determine one or more first winning conditions or first losing conditions for the primary game by applying the first set of operational rules to the generated combination of numbers; and when the side game is enabled, determine one or more second winning conditions or second losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to at least a portion of the generated combination of numbers.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein each number of the generated combination of numbers is associated with at least one graphical symbol.
 3. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least one display in communication with the at least one processor, wherein the at least one display is operable to render the combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the primary game.
 4. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least one display in communication with the at least one processor, wherein the at least one display is operable to render the combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the second game when the side game is enabled.
 5. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least one display in communication with the at least one processor, wherein the at least one display is operable to render the combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the primary game and the second game when the side game is enabled.
 6. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least two displays in communication with the at least one processor, wherein a first display of the at least two displays is operable to render the combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the primary game, and wherein a second display of the at least two displays is operable to render the combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the second game when the side game is enabled.
 7. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one process is further operable to execute the computer-executable instructions to prepare the combination of graphical symbols for display on at least one of a first or second display.
 8. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one process is further operable to execute the computer-executable instructions to receive an indication to enable the side game and to determine when the side game is enabled based at least in part on the received indication.
 9. The system of claim 2, wherein the primary game is a slot game.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the second set of operational rules are dependent on the first set of operational rules.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the side game is a version of roulette.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the version of roulette comprises a determination of a winning roulette number based at least in part on a selected one of the combination of graphical symbols.
 13. The system of claim 10, wherein the side game is a version of Poker.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the version of Poker comprises a determination of a winning Poker hand based at least in part on a selected one of the combination of graphical symbols.
 15. The system of claim 10, wherein the side game is a version Bingo, Keno, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, or Blackjack.
 16. A method, comprising: under control of one or more processors configured with computer-executable instructions: providing, by the one or more processors, at least (i) a first set of operational rules for determining one or more first winning conditions or losing conditions for a primary game, and (ii) a second set of operational rules for determining one or more second winning conditions or losing conditions for a side game, wherein the primary game and the side game are different, and wherein the first set of operational rules are independent from the second set of operational rules; generating a combination of graphical symbols in accordance with a play of a casino game; determining one or more first winning conditions or losing conditions for the primary game by applying the first set of operational rules to the generated combination of graphical symbols; and when the side game is enabled, determining one or more second winning conditions or losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to at least a portion of the generated combination of graphical symbols.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising receiving an indication to enable to the side game and determining when the side game is enabled based at least in part on the received indication.
 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing the generated combination of graphical symbols for display on a first display; and when the side is enabled, providing the at least a portion of the generated combination of graphical symbols for display on a second display.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing an indication of winning or losing the primary game for display on the first display; and when the side is enabled, providing an indication of winning or losing the side game for display on the second display.
 20. The method of claim 16, wherein the primary game is a slot game.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the side game is a version of roulette, Poker, Bingo, Keno, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, or Blackjack.
 22. One or more computer-readable media, storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: providing at least (i) a first set of operational rules for determining one or more first winning conditions or losing conditions for a primary game, and (ii) a second set of a second set of operational rules for determining one or more second winning conditions or losing conditions for a side game, wherein the primary game and the side game are different, and wherein the first set of operational rules are independent from the second set of operational rules; generating a graphical symbol in accordance with a play of a casino game; determining one or more first winning conditions or losing conditions for the primary game by applying the first set of operational rules to the generated graphical symbol; determining, based at least in part on a received indication to enable the side game, when to enable the side game; and when the side game is enabled, determining one or more second winning conditions or losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to the generated graphical symbol.
 23. A gaming console, comprising: at least one memory for storing at least (i) a first set of operational rules for determining one or more first winning conditions or first losing conditions for a primary game, and (ii) a second set of operational rules for determining one or more second winning conditions or second losing conditions for a side game, wherein the primary game and the side game are different, and wherein the first set of operational rules are independent from the second set of operational rules; at least one processor in communication with the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is operable to execute computer-executable instructions to: randomly or pseudo-randomly generate a combination of graphical symbols in accordance with a play of a casino game; determine one or more first winning conditions or first losing conditions for the primary game by applying the first set of operational rules to the generated combination of graphical symbols; and when the side game is enabled, determine one or more second winning conditions or second losing conditions for the side game by applying the second set of operational rules to at least a portion of the generated combination of symbols; at least one display in communication with at least the at least one processor, wherein the at least one display is operable to: display the generated combination of graphical symbols and an indication of winning or losing the primary game; and when the side game is enabled, display the portion of the generated combination of symbols and an indication of winning or losing the side game; and at least one input device in communication with at least the at least one processor, wherein the at least one input device is operable to receive input from a user for at least one of selecting a bet amount, selecting a number of bets, or selecting to enable the side bet. 